By ANNA USHER

North Sydney Council wants to ban gas appliances in all new houses and apartments due to concerns about climate change.

Under a proposed amendment, the Council will mandate electric cooktops, ovens and heaters, seeking to provide a “safer and healthier” way of living for residents.

Now on public exhibition, the draft amendment to the Development Control Plan (2025) sets out tough new rules,
from energy use and building materials to roof gardens and EV charging – awith one major reform at its core: new homes must be electric.

Under Section 10 of the plan, gas connections will no longer be permitted in new developments. Homes will instead be installed with electric cooking, heating and hot water systems, with solar and heat-pump technology strongly encouraged.

New dwellings will need to show how they maximise solar access, positioning main living areas to the north and designed and ensuring at least three hours of winter sunlight each day.

Ceiling fans will also be recommended over air-conditioning and all fixed appliances, from dishwashers to fridges must have a minimum 4.5-star energy rating.

“The primary purpose of the draft DCP amendment is to incorporate new provisions that seek to provide a safer and healthier indoor amenity by mitigating the health impacts associated with burning gas and promotion of all electric buildings for all new residential development,” the amendment overview states.

Council says the proposal marks the first stage in phasing out gas connections and appliances, aligning North Sydney with similar policies adopted by other metropolitan councils.

Residents can view the draft plan and provide feedback before 14 November via the Council’s community consultation portal.

All the details are on the official website.